Looking for a tasty, local lunch spot that doesn’t break the bank? We’re here for you, Richmond. Check out this list of 20+ places where a lunch for one costs $12 or less.
⭐️ Senior City Editor Robin here. I’ll be dropping in throughout the guide with some tips and reader recommendations. Look for the star emoji.
Sandwiches
Garnett’s, The Fan
Get takeout or sit at the counter and enjoy a sandwich from this Fan diner. Almost all sandwiches are under $10 and come with a side.
⭐️ My Garnett’s go-to is The Dutch Aunt with gouda, bacon, tomato, and caramelized onions on rye bread for $10.25.
Union Market, Union Hill
A number of the specialty sandwiches and salads are available for under $12.
Try this: the chicken tarragon sandwich with plum ginger jam for $11.
Mr. Submarine, multiple locations
Looking to grab a bite without leaving your car? Mr. Submarine has you covered with a plethora of options under $12 at both the drive thru West Broad location and its spot south of the river.
Catina Bakery, Henrico
This banh mi spot has fresh sandwiches with your choice of meat for $4 each.
Pro tip: There’s a $10 card minimum, so bring cash unless you’re feeling extra hungry.
Westwood Fountain, Three Chopt
This Libbie institution has burgers, sandwiches, and quesadillas on the menu for under $12.
⭐️ Our thanks to Reader Diana G. for the recommendation.
City Dogs, multiple locations
We’re not here to debate whether a hot dog is a sandwich. Whatever it is, City Dogs has a menu full of options for around $4 each at both the West Main and East Cary Street establishments.
Bonus: Soy dog substitutes are available for an extra 50 cents.
Classic combos
Abuelita’s, Midlothian
Order the platillo chico at this Southside Mexican restaurant. The dish includes one serving of guiso, rice, beans, and tortillas — all for $9.95.
Mama J’s, Jackson Ward
For a soul-filled lunch, go for the starters — the catfish nuggets are $9 — or mix-and-match some sides. $12 will get you macaroni and cheese ($5), collard greens ($5), and two corns muffins ($1 each).
Philly Steak & Gyros, Carytown
Order the regular size sub or wrap for under $7, or make it a meal for $11.
⭐️ I’ve got my eyes on the teriyaki chicken philly with grilled onions and provolone.
Eat 33, Staples Mill
Get your fill of comfort food with fried pork chops ($10.95) or a veggie plate ($8.50).
⭐️ Reader Pete M. and Roma C. both tipped us off to the lunch deals at this spot.
Texas Inn, Museum District
This classic diner boasts dozens of items you can order for an affordable lunch. Get a breakfast sandwich for $6-7 or a burger for $9-10.
Trucks, carts, and carry-out
Christopher’s Runaway Gourmay, multiple locations
This seasonal food cart fleet has locations at 12th and Marshall Street, 8th and Main Street, and 12th and Main Street.
⭐️ The tuna salad, chicken salad, pastas, and marinated cucumbers all come highly recommended by our readers.
Ay Caramba, multiple locations
This Mexican food favorite has both a downtown food truck and a permanent location on East Grace Street. Swing by either for $3 tacos or loaded-up $8.50 burritos.
Local legends
Jamaica House, Jackson Ward
Bowls, sandwiches, and the smaller entree portions at this flavor paradise downtown are perfect for lunch and for your budget.
⭐️ Try the curry chickpea bowl or the jerk pork quesadilla for $9.
Hondo’s Steakhouse, Glen Allen
This Glen Allen steakhouse has a whole menu for lunchtime options under 13 bucks. An order of wagyu meatloaf with garlic mashers and sauteed vegetables will run you $11.95.
Joe’s Inn, The Fan
River City icon Joe’s Inn may be best known for its spaghetti, but it also boasts a lunch menu brimming with affordable options. Try the BLT, fried chicken, or barbecue sandwiches for under $10.
⭐️ If you’re feeling an extra dose of local pride, the sailor sandwich is $11.95.
Big Chile, The Fan
The three taco order at Big Chile will run you $11.
Pizza
Zorch Pizza, Carytown
Swing by to get a New York Style slice. Try this: The White Out signature pizza has caramelized onions, basil, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan — enjoy it for $5.25.
Pupatella, The Fan
The lunch special gets you a Classica Doc Pizza and a drink for $10 or a Diavola or Pepperoni plus an Arancini or a Panzarotti for $11.
Jo-Jo’s Famous NY Style Pizza & Subs, multiple locations
Grab a slice at the downtown location or try out the Midlothian spot. Pro tip: The lunch special is two slices of ‘za and a fountain drink for under $10.
Benny Ventano’s, The Fan
This regional pizza chain has kite-sized slices for $6-7. Grab a soda and a slice for the road and you can still come in under $10.
Bonus: If you’re feeling reckless, take on the Benny’s Challenge on your lunch break and try to finish a 28-inch pie in under 28 minutes.
If you’re now craving pizza, check out our guide to the best slices in town.
We know we missed some places. Drop us a line so we can add to our list — and fill our bellies.
